<p>A moneylender nicknamed “'a Sberressa” (the policewoman) insults an old man and another poor man who cannot repay their debts. Her partner Nirone helps her and smacks every defaulting debtor. The Sberressa even forces one of the debtors, Rosenella, to give her money she had saved on the side to pay for medicine for her dying mother. These last abuses of power prompt two debtors to ask for Nicolino Iossa’s help. Nicolina does not hesitate and helps the poor victims of the moneylender. As punishment, he smacks the Sberressa and Nirone and forces them to give Rosenella her money back.</p>

Rod and string marionette

Not specified

Perna Ciro

Printed

Wear and tear

Abuse

Protection

Poverty

Violence

Punishment

Battered woman

Cycle of performances

Realist

Dramatic

Neapolitan

Moneylander

Old man

Old woman

Guappo

Debtor

Commoner (female)

Aside

Slaps

Aria

Echoing lines

Shouts of acclamation in several voices

'E sorde co 'nteresse

Money with interests